Into Unknown Shadows (Inactive)

Game Master Mowque


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Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

I have trust issues :) I'm glad my suspicions weren't true.

"New spells are always useful but I'm more looking for information about places in Manaket. It seemed like a good place to expand my knowledge. Is there a section about the history of Manaket?"


"Of course!" he leads her into the room, shooing away a construct. He finds a rickety old set of stairs and leads Shalina up it. As she climbs the smell of old paper, thick leather and light dust grows.

As an actual librarian, this is fun!

Finally he finds the level he is looking for and ushers Shalina in. It looks much the same as downstairs, just a slightly smaller room as the building tapers towards the summit. He leads her to a few locked bookcases and opens them. Shalina can see a number of histories about the city and various landmarks.

'Here are some local works,Bashir's History of course, some by the Taldor traveler Genix Heldren, a wonderful six volume set by a very odd gnomeish inventor..." The half-elf goes on in this vein for a long time. He doesn't stop.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

It's nice when real life and gaming cross over. Where are you a librarian? When my mom worked she was a teach librarian in the elementary school system.

Shalina listens intently and nods politely as he goes over all the available volumes. When he finally pauses, she says, "How about I start with the city's landmarks - or maybe any temples that used to exist in the city. I'm curious as to how religion became illegal in Manaket."


I am the director of a small public library. I'll never be rich but I enjoy the job

"Ah, the Oath Wars." The half-elf says nodding. "Not many records from that time remain.We do have some of Kalim Onaku's first proclamations..." After a very long discussion of atheistic practice and philosophy he nods and says. "Enjoy"

Time to do some skill rolling to find what you need!


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Enjoying your job is very important. I work in academia/research where our budgets are grant funded so I totally understand the never being rich part :)

Just throwing out a bunch of rolls and hopefully something will flag.

knowledge,arcana: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
knowledge,history: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
knowledge,local: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15
knowledge,religion: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

linguistics: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

I'm hoping that my history and religion rolls will give me pertinent info but of course, that's up to the GM :)


Shalina learns many things about Manaket as she roves the books. The city was one of the first to ban all temples and acts of worship. That many of the clerics and priests fought hopeless and bloody battles to defend them. While many of the temples were destroyed, most were re-purposes as banks, armorys, even private homes. She even finds a mention of the Shifting Temple that states it was one of the few not torn down OR re-purposed and it was dedicated to Nethys. There are few other clues....

Then she finds a thin, water-stained old book labeled The Shifting Temple: A Rouge's Guide. It is firmly locked though, with a heavy iron clasp.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

"A rogue's guide?" she murmurs. "I wonder if the lock is some sort of test."

She contemplates finding the librarian to ask if he has the key but quickly dismisses the thought. If the temple was illegal then she didn't want to alert anyone that she was looking into it. She takes a very close look at the book's clasp before getting her tools out of her bag. As usual, she expects there to be additional security on the lock in the form of a trap of some sort and tries to deduce if this is the case before proceeding.

perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17

Even though she's not completely sure that it's safe to open, she figures that she's looked at it pretty closely. Let's hope this goes well or else I'll never hear the end of it from Tekk.

disable device: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (6) + 18 = 24

If she could take 10 instead then she would. I don't think she's in any rush. She also has +1 trap sense :)


Shalina investigates the locking mechanism. It is old and rusty, and rough beneath her fingers. She detects no traps or anything so proceeds to work. After ten minutes or so she gives up. The lock is toot rusty to work with. She needs a lubricant or something, no matter how good her lock picking is.

As she realizes this she sees a man enter the room. He is her same age, slim, with pale skin and a long nose. Dressed in fine robes he looks at the books she has piled about her. Smiling knowingly he says, 'Planning a run into the Temple?"


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

"Is that a thing that young people do? I know that young people in Wati do that with the Necropolis. Are you from around here? What do you know of the Temple?"


"Not if they want to become old people." The man says, eyeing Shalina closely. "I am from the city, yes. Every decade or so, the local thieves guild, the Sand rats will try the Temple. Two times ago, before my time, they tried with the full cooperation of the city. They had a full team of fighters, lockpicks, scholars. They entered the temple through the main doors...and never came out. The same for everyone who has every tried it."

He shrugs, pale shoulders moving gracefully, "Fools, the lot of them. Are you a fool as well? You look too pretty to be so." He moves to sit next tot he bard, a bit too close, and Shalina's feminine sense tingle a bit


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Shalina smiles up at the man, slightly unnerved by his effect on her. "Where are my manners? I'm Shalina and you are?"

I'm guessing a dhampir?

"As to your previous question, it would depend on who you ask. My current companion would probably tell you that I am a fool. I prefer to think of it as being adventurous."

She giggled like a schoolgirl and then silently chided herself. "You seem to be quite well versed about the Temple. If there were a person who was thinking about 'trying the Temple' as you say, is there any knowledge you would share with them? Obviously going in the main doors is ill-advised."

Even though part of her felt it was a risk, she leaned in closer as if they were colluding. "Do you know any way to open this book? I need oil to help the lock along but don't seem to have any."


Who knows. Roll a knowledge check if you want to know?

The man seems quite taken with her giggle and smiles, although Shalina notes he keeps his teeth hidden. His pale, long-fingered hands smooth out his elegant robes.

My name is Quent Pastel." He gives a short, sitting bow.

To her last words he waves a hand, pale blue eyes glittering. Shalina has the distinct sense he is enjoying her scent. grease fills the lock and Shalina can feel the old rust give way. She can open it now.

"As for the Temple, why? Just an old forgotten place, cursed by the forbidden gods, and with a will to destroy all intruders." He pauses, then lays a cool, smooth hand on the bard's shoulder. "There are more...pressing and interesting matters to discuss, surely?"

Ugh, please do something before I have to roleplay a creeper much longer!


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

You're the one who made him into a creeper :) Not sure which roll is needed so I'll choose the couple knowledge ones that make most sense to me.

knowledge,nature: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
knowledge,arcana: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Shalina smiles sweetly at what she assumes is a dhampir - that or someone who fancied himself as one. "What could possibly be more pressing and interesting than the search for knowledge? Why else would the two of us be inside a library on a beautiful sunny day such as this?" Picking up the book she adds, "Thank you so much for greasing the lock for me. The sooner I find the information I'm looking for, the sooner I can get back to my companion."


Shalina notes the pale skin, the eyes, the shape of the slender neck. he is was a dhampir, a mixture of vampire and human. Quite dangerous and here insight to the arcane shows he has some magical skill, judging by the component pouch hanging beneath his robes.

Quent stands up, blocking the door. "Is that all the thanks I get? I have to say, your politeness, does not overwhelm me." There is an edge to his voice as he adds, "Frankly, a bit inconsiderate. Surely I have earned some token of your favor?"


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Shalina also stands and eyes Quent warily. "And why do men always think that a woman needs to thank them with something other than words?"


"Because you have so much to offer, although your words are pleasant enough. " His eyes scandalously rake Shalina, and seem to cut through her clothes and armor. "Do you not agree? Now, let's not get on a pedestal. I gave you something you wanted, now you do the same, It is a fair trade." He keeps blocking the door, hands slightly outstretched now. There is no other sound, just the man's quickening breathing.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

"I asked you if you knew how to open the book. I told you what I needed to open the book. I never asked you to actually do anything about opening the book. It was your decision to act. Therefore what you're wanting in trade doesn't seem to fair to me."

Shalina considered yelling for the librarian but still hoped that Quent would lose interest and let her go. Surely he could find other, more willing, women to play with.

If he pushes this further, she'll cast discovery torch on herself hoping that the light emanation will repulse him enough to move him away from the door so she can leave.


Quent seems like a man drawn by a challenge. "It was implied, just as you being alone in a room implies something as well." His voice, a smooth cultured one, seems to rough and his eye dilate.

Seeing the threat Shalina casts, Discovery Torch and for a moment the room is thrown into harsh light, as Shalina glows with the incandescent light of a burning torch.

Quent curses and covers his eyes but then casts his own spell and her light dims and flickers. "Deeper Darkness is a wonderful spell." Quent says and the room is a weird half-light from the warring spells.

"Now, I really must insist, doubly so since you have inconvenienced me." He closes the door with a gesture and Shalina can hear it lock.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Shalina could feel her anger beginning to simmer. "How is me being alone in a room implying anything? And how is disagreeing with you any kind of inconvenience to you? Surely you can find some other women more willing to submit to your charms. You'd be happy, I'd be happy - it's win, win. Otherwise I'll get angry - and you won't like me when I'm angry."

couldn't resist :) I tried to make it better so now I'll make it worse...


"You'd be surprised what I like." He holds up his hands and twists it, as if throwing a ball at Shalina.

Shalina Will Save: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

She feels a shudder go through her, as an invisible orb of magic hits her. She feels strange...lightheaded, disconnected.

You've been hit with Arcane Disruption:
This spell makes it difficult for the subject to cast arcane spells, use spell-like abilities, and use some abilities granted by arcane spellcasting classes. The subject must succeed at a concentration check (DC = 10 + 1/2 its caster level) in order to cast an arcane spell, use any spell-like ability (even those that come from a divine source), use arcane spell completion or spell trigger magic items, or use any of the following class features that come from an arcane spellcasting class: arcane school powers, arcanist exploits, bardic performances, magus arcana, or witch hexes. Spells, spell-like abilities, or class features that take a free, swift, or immediate action aren't affected by this spell, nor are mythic spells or mythic powers.

While under the effect of this spell, if the subject must attempt a concentration check to cast an arcane spell or use an arcane spell-like ability for any reason other than the effect of this spell (such as casting defensively, being injured while casting, and so on), it takes a penalty on that check equal to 1/2 its caster level.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

I'm assuming that Shalina has all her equipment since the librarian didn't make a point of making her leave her weapons anywhere...

spell craft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

Shalina feels like something he did managed to block her magic. Good thing she hadn't been counting on her magic to protect herself.

She reaches for her glaive that was resting against the wall as she had been reading. She allows her new found rage to course through her veins infusing her with strength and resiliency. "Now I'm angry." She lashes out with the weapon. Previously she would have been happy to move him away from the door but with it locked, she needed to incapacitate him.

Did he just use magic to physically lock the door and she can unlock it if she can get close (ie locking it mainly to keep others out rather than her in) or would she need to pick it/have a key to unlock it?

mw glaive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21
damage: 1d10 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
mw glaive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
damage: 1d10 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5


You have all your weapons and gear. He locked the door with mage hand, just a simple latch.

Shalina's blows catch the damphir off guard. He manages to dodge the second one, but seems shocked as he holds a hand to his side and it comes away red.

Quent suddenly seems to realize he is trapped in a room with a very enraged and heavily armed woman. He tries to move tot he side, to make room to cast a spell.

Shalina aims a blow at him and it cuts him, but only a little.

Shailina AoO: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26
AoO Damage: 1d10 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

Now farther away he cats another spell. Shalina is thrown into blackness as the spell quenches her discovery torch completely, plunging the room into utter dark. In addition she feels prickles climb her back.

Shalina Fort Save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8

Her limbs feel heavy and sluggish as she looks around.

You are fatigued and in total blackness


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Sadly she can't use spellcraft because she's raging.

Shalina screams in anger when the lights go out. She moves towards where she thinks the door is to unlock it since she can no longer see the source of her rage.

As she moves, she keeps her weapon sweeping the air to keep Quent away from her.


Darkness rules:
Darkvision allows many characters and monsters to see perfectly well without any light at all, but characters with normal or low-light vision can be rendered completely blind by putting out the lights. Torches or lanterns can be blown out by sudden gusts of subterranean wind, magical light sources can be dispelled or countered, or magical traps might create fields of impenetrable darkness.

In many cases, some characters or monsters might be able to see while others are blinded. For purposes of the following points, a blinded creature is one who simply can't see through the surrounding darkness.

Creatures blinded by darkness lose the ability to deal extra damage due to precision (for example, via sneak attack or a duelist's precise strike ability).

Blind creatures must make a DC 10 Acrobatics skill check to move faster than half speed. Creatures that fail this check fall prone. Blinded creatures can't run or charge.

All opponents have total concealment from a blinded creature, so the blinded creature has a 50% miss chance in combat. A blinded creature must first pinpoint the location of an opponent in order to attack the right square; if the blinded creature launches an attack without pinpointing its foe, it attacks a random square within its reach. For ranged attacks or spells against a foe whose location is not pinpointed, roll to determine which adjacent square the blinded creature is facing; its attack is directed at the closest target that lies in that direction.

A blinded creature loses its Dexterity modifier to AC (if positive) and takes a –2 penalty to AC.

A blinded creature takes a –4 penalty on Perception checks and most Strength- and Dexterity-based skill checks, including any with an armor check penalty. A creature blinded by darkness automatically fails any skill check relying on vision.

Creatures blinded by darkness cannot use gaze attacks and are immune to gaze attacks.

A creature blinded by darkness can make a Perception check as a free action each round in order to locate foes (DC equal to opponents' Stealth checks). A successful check lets a blinded character hear an unseen creature “over there somewhere.” It's almost impossible to pinpoint the location of an unseen creature. A Perception check that beats the DC by 20 reveals the unseen creature's square (but the unseen creature still has total concealment from the blinded creature).

A blinded creature can grope about to find unseen creatures. A character can make a touch attack with his hands or a weapon into two adjacent squares using a standard action. If an unseen target is in the designated square, there is a 50% miss chance on the touch attack. If successful, the groping character deals no damage but has pinpointed the unseen creature's current location. If the unseen creature moves, its location is once again unknown.

If a blinded creature is struck by an unseen foe, the blinded character pinpoints the location of the creature that struck him (until the unseen creature moves, of course). The only exception is if the unseen creature has a reach greater than 5 feet (in which case the blinded character knows the location of the unseen opponent, but has not pinpointed him) or uses a ranged attack (in which case the blinded character knows the general direction of the foe, but not his location).

Shalina Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

So you just want to head for the door? The odds of hitting him are very slim.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Yes, head for the door. Sweeping her weapon around is mainly to keep him away from her.


Shalina, moving int he dark, thinks she hears the wizard off to her left. Swinging blindly she moves toward the door.

Acrobatics: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26

Despite the darkness, Shalina finds the door. Mostly by running into it. With a thud she runs into the door. From the inky blackness she hears the caster laughing.

Then she feels a ball of wet stickiness hit her back.

Reflex: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8

Shalina is grappled in the sticky fibers that have exploded alla round her and the door.

Web:
If the save fails, the creature gains the grappled condition, but can break free by making a combat maneuver check or Escape Artist check as a standard action against the DC of this spell. The entire area of the web is considered difficult terrain. Anyone moving through the webs must make a combat maneuver check or Escape Artist check as part of their move action, with a DC equal to the spell's DC. Creatures that fail lose their movement and become grappled in the first square of webbing that they enter.
If you have at least 5 feet of web between you and an opponent, it provides cover. If you have at least 20 feet of web between you, it provides total cover.
The strands of a web spell are flammable. A flaming weapon can slash them away as easily as a hand brushes away cobwebs. Any fire can set the webs alight and burn away one 5-foot square in 1 round. All creatures within flaming webs take 2d4 points of fire damage from the flames.

Things just keep getting worse...


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

It would help if she could make just one of her saving throws...

Shalina uses her increased strength to break the webbing so that she can unlock the door.

CMB: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29 Better than her escape artist with the increased strength


With a roar that shakes the dust from the ceiling, Shalina, in the grip of rage, rips the web apart with her bare hands. It parts like wet ribbons beneath her now bulging muscles. With contemptible ease she tosses the now-limp webbing aside and confronts the door, still in blackness.

Go ahead, your move


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Her hand gropes for the latch in order to unlock the door. She manages to get the door open and stumbles out into the hallway.

If she has all her stuff and the book that started it all then she'll leave. If not, she'll yell for help.


You have everything.

"No!" She hears from behind her, in the inky darkness of the room, the door like a void. From that blackness a hard ball fo white shoots out.

Snowball Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 1, 5, 1) = 12

Shalina Fort Save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

You are staggered...you really can't quite make a save, can you?


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

I thought her Fort save was higher as a barbarian, no?

"You really can't take no for an answer, can you?" Shalina growls. She continues to try and make her way through the door.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

She'd probably fail anyways considering you rolled a 3 but I thought her bonus was larger. Plus does the increase to Con with raging affect the fort save too? I'm not sure the best way to display a gestalt character in her profile, thoughts?


Ahh, I forgot that....Maybe put things like +3(+5 when raging) and such? So I can see both? As for gestalt, just put the better of the each save. Just get rid of the lower bard ones. If your Barbarian Will save is +5 (for example) just use that as your save. The bard ones are overturned by the better barbarian ones, clear?

Shalina, staggering makes the stairs, bloodied and wounded. Still, she has plenty of fight left in her and Quent doesn't follow her into the light.

I feel that fight could have gone better....Should have locked the door?


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Ok, I'll fix her profile. I assume that the barbarian BAB will also replace the bard ones and then the bard skills will stay along with her spells?

Shalina struggled between wanting to finish off Quent and wanting to leave. She was in a strange city after all and leaving bodies behind you in a wake was never a good idea.

I wasn't sure if that was supposed to be a fight. It could have gone better but Shalina didn't have light. I thought you did lock the door...and any time a single girl gets locked in a room with a guy, she'll fight.


It was supposed to be a fight, it just seemed anti-climatic. Ah well. I am perfectionist with combats

The wizard doesn't descend the stairs or shoot spells after her. Apparently the bard cum barbarian was too much woman for him to handle. Tekk would be proud.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Now I know she needs to invest in a darkvision potion. It's hard to have an epic fight when you can't see your opponent and they're light on their feet. Any fight I walk away from is a good fight in my books :)

Shalina slows down a little to catch her breath. She was still getting used to the fatigue that sets in after letting the anger take hold. She makes sure that the book that started it all is tucked into her bag. She's unsure as to whether she'll be able to exit the library with the book but she really doesn't want to stay any longer in order to read it. The last thing she wanted was to be found by Quent again. Her unexpected encounter left her wanting to find Tekk.


She is not stopped by any librarian or construct as she leaves the library. It feels good to be out int he bright sunlight, and smell the desert winds. It fills Shalina with strength and harmony, and helps put the darkness of Quent behind her.

She wanders the streets, confronted with a new problem. How to find Tekk? The city was a big place, teeming with people.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

From how Shalina figures it, she has two options. She can either go back to the Black Sword or stay close by the library. Tekk knew that she was coming to the Wiseman's Aid so he may come looking for her here when he was ready. However, the problem with staying close by is that Quent may be able to find her. The memory of him smelling her gave her the creeps all over again and she shivered in the heat. I guess it's the Black Sword for me. Hopefully Tekk will figure it out.


Shalina finds the eatery with ease and takes a seat at one of the outside tables, easy to see and be seen. She orders a drink and waits.

Then another drink.

By the third slow, leisurely drink she is worried. The sun starts to set int he sky, setting the city on fire in red fiery light. Slowly the stalls are being folded up and shops closed. Still,t here is no sign of the paladin. Had he gotten in trouble? Shalina scans the passing people, still seeing nothing of the Toth paladin.

Just as dusk finally takes the city, and she is about to panic, she sees Tekk coming up the road. He is stumbling, arms spread out. It takes her a moment to realize the truth. Tekk was...drunk?

He finds her table, and after a moment of staring sits down heavily. His dust stained face is wet with tears, and he folds his heads in his hands, crying softly to himself.

Alas, even Real Men(tm) cry


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Here the bard had been hoping to find comfort in Tekk's strength after her unnerving afternoon. But she quickly realizes that she needs to be strong for him. There was something endearing about seeing his unshakable facade finally crumble. Although she shuddered to think about what had caused him such pain. Maybe now he'd finally talk to her.

She slides her chair closer to his and without saying anything she puts her arm around his shoulders in a side hug and lets him cry. She hums softly, a soothing lullabye from her childhood, and waits for him to speak.


It takes longer then Shalina expects but finally the man sits up a bit. His words are quiet and soft 'It was her, I saw her. Right there, running a fruit stand. Smiling..."

His faces twists then, in a rougher voice, 'It wasn't her, it wasn't....but it could be her. It should be her!' The last is louder, drink slurring his words a bit. "If it wasn't for me, it could be her!"

A waiter comes over, pity in his eyes. He looks at Shalina, "Time to go home, both of you. He looks to Tekk, [b]'Especially for him, poor man."


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Shalina looks at the waiter apologetically. "Can you recommend an inn nearby? Did he spend time here earlier?"

tag waiter

Once she has a place to go, she gets to her feet and pulls Tekk up. "Time to go. We'll find somewhere better to talk or maybe a place for you to get some rest." She guides the paladin to the inn and pays for a room.

Once they have the privacy of their room, she tries to get more information from him. In a gentle voice she asks, "Who did you see, Tekk? Or think you saw?"


The waiter recommends a small, tidy Inn nearby and Shalina manages to guide Tekk there. As they walk, he seems to come back to himself, calming down. His walk is still unsteady though and he leans on her. His body is heavy, still wearing armor and weapon, and his breath is laced with liquor.

Inside the room, when asked he says, voice clearer. "It was her...the woman. The reason i was at the oasis." He looks out the tiny window onto the quiet street below. "The woman I killed...." With that he slowly falls into bed, tears still falling and then the paladin falls into a drunken sleep/stupor.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Just so I know for what I write and so that I don't scandalize Tekk, were we able to get a room with 2 beds or is Shalina sleeping on the floor? :)


Two beds, so to make things easier. Tekk really doesn't need a woman in his bed right now. He snores anyway.


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

As Tekk snores loudly in his drunken stupor, Shalina finally pulls the book about the Temple out of her bag. She opens it and begins to read.

She learn anything new?

When her head begins to nod and she jerks awake a few times, she decides it's time to go to bed herself. However, her sleep is restless as her dreams are filled with the sound of Quent breathing in the darkness, watching her.


Shalina learns a great deal. The Temple was once a grand temple to Nethys, god of magic. When all the temples were closed, it was the sight of a bloody battle between the worshipers and the new atheist authorities. Magic was flung with abandoned during the fight, with several priests withdrawing into the Temple.

All those went in after simply vanished. After several attempts, the city gave up and simply marked the Temple off limits. For years brave men and cunning men tried to sneak in and rob the surely rich Temple. None ever returned.

Only the most bare reports have come back, from those who turned back at the very gates. A feeling the Temple was alive, and did not wish to be violated. That the very floors and walls seemed to move and grow, past that of sanity or laws of nature. That raw magic crackled deep in the heart of the Temple...

I really like the bit about Quent

A bright dawn wakes Shalina up, light pouring in the windows. Tekk is awake, polishing his sword quietly. His face is drawn, weary but he shows no sign of emotion.

'Good Morning." He says, a bit formally, and keeps to his blade. 'Did you find anything out about this Temple? Full of kobolds again? A real dragon this time?"


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Shalina had never been so grateful to see light as she did that morning. She listens to Tekk's questions and skooches to the end of her bed. "So that's how it's going to be? You're just going to pretend yesterday didn't happen? I thought we'd gotten closer than that but I guess I was wrong." It was probably her lack of sleep that caused her to push the issue. "Regardless of what you think of me, we're going to talk about it. Otherwise it'll continue to eat at you and erode the rock that I've come to depend on."


Tekk keeps polishing the blade. The smooth receptive motion seems to center the paladin.

'A man's secrets are his own." he pauses then looks up, hands still working. 'But you are right. I will tell you some of it."

'I use to live in Sosthis, in the shade of the Carapace actually."

"I was raised in the old ways, to a devout family. We were never truly trusted, but we kept our heads down. I learned to fight, to earn my bread. I was good at it, and my faith made me strong. I was young then...so young."

A brief pause in the polishing then back to the smooth motions.

"I did guard duty for some of the merchants in town. I heard things, saw things....I guarded for men who cheated, who robbed, who outright stole. Still, the contract did not allow me to interfere. If I did, no more work and punishment. What of my family then?"

'One day, I was working a priest of the new gods. Abadar. He ran a small bank in the market. He was cheating his customers but I was resigned to it by then. What could shock me?"

'Then, the night came.." The polishing stops, and his voice shakes a bit.

'It was late, well past dark. I was just outside the door, and since it was quiet, could hear quite well. There was a woman inside, begging for a loan to keep her house, nearly crying. The...priest was cruel hard and said no. Then, she offered her a loan if she would....offer herself to him."

Tekk shakes his head. 'I burst in, full of fire and fury, sword in hand. I looked the fat little man in the eyes and swore by the gods....I rushed him."

"I was not as swift or sure as I thought. In that moment the woman tried to intercede. Was she trying to stop me? Help me gain vengeance? Simply panicked? I never knew for my sword cut her down. I was too slow to stop it..."

A single tear runs down his face but his voice is hard, stern. "The merchant fled taking his money. I hardly noticed, I was bowed over the woman. She was young...so young..."

"I took her out of the city, ignoring everything and buried her in the dunes. What else could I do?"

"So I was found guilty of killing the merchant and stealing his money. No one ever came forward about the woman, I still do not know her name. What became of the merchant? Who knows?"

His voice becomes brittle, 'So I was exiled for a crime I never did and reprieved for the much worse crime I [/i]did[i/] commit. But the gods knew...they know."

Silence then, sword forgotten. He looks at Shalina, face unreadable.

Hope that wasn't too much...?


Female Human Archaeologist/10; Elemental Kin/10 | 66/95 HP, 20/20 temp HPs; Active Conditions: 2xnegative levels, Greater Invisibility | Rage = 18/23rounds; Archaeologist Luck = 4/6; Spells Left: 1st-6/6, 2nd-4/5, 3rd-2/3, 4th-1/1 | Mythic Power 5/7

Not too much. Finally he shares :)

Shalina leans forward and places her hand over top of his. "If the gods know your actions, they should also know your intent. You never meant for that woman to get hurt, you wanted to protect her. Of course that doesn't change what happened and what happened is horrible. Not just to the woman but to you as well. You are a much more honorable man than you give yourself credit for. My time in the city yesterday solidified that fact for me." Shalina pauses but doesn't share any further. "You shouldn't beat yourself up so much."

"And, everything that happened in your past allowed our paths to cross." She gave him a winning smile. "Hopefully you consider that as something good to have come out of tragedy."

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